*batteries not included (1987)

Overview

*batteries not included is a 1987 science fiction-fantasy family film directed by Matthew Robbins and produced by Steven Spielberg. The film tells the story of an elderly couple and other tenants living in a small apartment building in an old New York neighborhood, and their struggle against a greedy contractor's attempts to demolish the building. At the center of the story are small, adorable metallic alien creatures who unexpectedly descend from the sky. These creatures, with their distinctive personalities, form the emotional and fantastical backbone of the film.

The film reflects the warm, humanistic approach to science fiction characteristic of the 1980s. The theme often seen in Spielberg-branded productions—"ordinary people encountering extraordinary events"—is explored here as well, though *batteries not included presents it within a more neighborhood-scale, intimate, and melancholic framework. Considered quite successful for the technology of its time in terms of visual effects, the production created a particularly memorable image with the design of the small alien machines.

The cast features experienced names such as Hume Cronyn and Jessica Tandy, while the technical crew includes visual effects masters like John Dykstra. The film aims to strike a balance that can appeal to both children and adults.

Plot

The story takes place in a building on the verge of demolition in New York's Lower East Side. Among the building's residents, an elderly couple who has lived there for years stands out through their memories of the neighborhood's past and their devotion to one another. However, a contractor seeking to redevelop the area is pressuring the tenants to leave. The other tenants also contribute to the story through their own life struggles, their confrontations with the past, and the relationships they build with one another.

At this very moment of despair, small, flying, metallic beings appear from the sky. Though these creatures cannot communicate in human language, they form an emotional bond through their behavior and take action to solve the building residents' problems. The film proceeds by blending science fiction elements with human drama and light comedy. The plot addresses both the social issue of urban development and displacement, as well as universal emotions such as hope, solidarity, and sacrifice.

Why Watch It?

*batteries not included offers a nostalgic experience for viewers seeking the classic '80s family film feel. One of the film's greatest strengths is its blending of science fiction elements not through exaggerated action sequences, but through an emotional and humanistic perspective. The design of the alien creatures, their charm, and their strong characteristics—even without dialogue—leave a lasting impression on viewers.

The film also addresses themes such as loneliness, aging, and social solidarity in a warm, undidactic manner. The performances of Hume Cronyn and Jessica Tandy significantly enhance the film's emotional depth. In terms of visual effects, the production offers creative solutions for its era, delivering a visually satisfying experience thanks to the contributions of its technical crew members (in this context, technical crew members such as John DiSanti).

The film also succeeds in making the viewer reflect by approaching an issue that remains relevant today—urban development—through a fantastical lens.

Who Is It Suitable For?

The film is extremely well-suited for family viewing. While children will enjoy the charm of the alien creatures and the fantastical elements, adults can more deeply feel the film's underlying social criticism and emotional layers. It is an ideal choice for fans of nostalgic '80s cinema, those interested in classic Spielberg-produced science fiction films, and those who prefer slow-paced, character-driven stories.

For viewers expecting action-heavy, fast-paced science fiction films, however, this movie may not fully meet expectations, as *batteries not included focuses more on dramatic and emotional storytelling.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

1. The charming and originally designed alien characters enhance the film's memorability.

2. The emotional and convincing performances of Hume Cronyn and Jessica Tandy add depth to the story.

3. The warm and heartfelt treatment of themes such as urban development, loneliness, and solidarity.

Cons:

1. The pacing occasionally feels heavy, which may be tedious for some viewers.

2. The science fiction elements may remain more limited and secondary than expected.

Genre and Tone

The film has a hybrid tone that combines science fiction, family drama, and light comedy elements. Although the fantastical elements are prominent, the main emphasis is on human relationships and social issues. The overall atmosphere is warm, hopeful, and at times melancholic; rather than expecting an aggressive or tension-focused science fiction film, it is more appropriate to look for an emotional and nostalgic tone.

Runtime and Viewing Experience

The film has a runtime of approximately 106 minutes, during which the story maintains a balanced pace. While the early sections introduce the characters and neighborhood dynamics, the fantastical elements come into play in the later scenes. As viewers grow accustomed to the calm pace, they arrive better prepared for the film's emotional high points. It is a suitable production to watch together with family, especially in a relaxed setting during the evening hours.

Similar Productions

• E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982)

• Cocoon (1985)

• Short Circuit (1986)

• The Iron Giant (1999)

• Flight of the Navigator (1986)

• Other Amblin productions close in spirit to the *batteries not included universe

Final Assessment

*batteries not included is an emotionally rich family film that successfully reflects the warm and humanistic approach to science fiction of the 1980s. With the charm of its alien creatures, strong acting performances, and the way it handles social themes, it offers both a nostalgic and meaningful viewing experience. It is a satisfying choice for viewers who aren't expecting fast-paced action and who are open to character-driven, emotional stories.